A guide to signs that give advance warning of traffic control devices ahead, such as stop signs, signals, and railroad crossings, allowing you time to prepare.
What are some reasons a 'Signal Ahead' sign might be posted?
The traffic light could be new, located in an unexpected place (like a high-speed rural road), or obscured from view by geography or structures.
What is the purpose of an 'advance warning' sign for a traffic control?
To give you enough time to slow down and prepare for the action required by the upcoming traffic control, especially when it is not immediately visible.
Why is a 'Stop Ahead' sign necessary?
It warns you of an upcoming stop sign that may be hidden by a hill, a curve, or another obstruction, preventing you from having to brake suddenly.
What should you do when you see 'Yield Ahead' sign?
Slow down and be prepared to yield the right-of-way at the intersection just ahead. This gives you time to check for cross-traffic before reaching the yield sign.
What does this 'Signal Ahead' sign mean?
There is a traffic signal (stoplight) at the intersection ahead. Be prepared to slow down and stop if the light is yellow or red.
What does this round, yellow sign with 'RXR' signify?
This is the advance warning for a railroad crossing. You should slow down, look both ways, and listen for a train. It is the only circular warning sign in the U.S.
What is this 'crossbuck' sign and where is it located?
The crossbuck sign is located at the railroad crossing itself and is a regulatory sign that means 'Yield'. You must yield to any approaching trains.
What does a plaque below a railroad crossbuck sign that says '2 TRACKS' mean?
It indicates there are two or more sets of tracks at the crossing. After one train has passed, you must look and listen carefully for another train on another track before proceeding.
What does a sign reading 'REDUCED SPEED LIMIT AHEAD' inform you of?
The speed limit will be decreasing at the next regulatory sign. You should begin to slow down so you are traveling at the new, lower speed when you reach the speed limit sign.
